16.05.2023
If you're planning a sailing vacation, you'll need to select the best charter option for your crew's preferences and abilities. This article will help you decide between bareboat, skippered, and crewed charters by examining their features, advantages, and disadvantages.
It's the time to plan a vacation, and sailing should be high on your priority list. To turn this dream into reality, you must first decide on a destination, then choose a boat type and how you want to operate it. Do you or a crew member have a valid skipper license and the confidence to take responsibility? Are you open to paying extra for a professional skipper? Or would you prefer a full crew to manage your sailing trip?
There are three charter options to consider for your dream vessel:
- Bareboat charter - no skipper or crew is included in the price, and this is the most common boat rental practice.
- Skippered charter - you can hire a professional skipper who takes care of all boat operations, making it popular among non-sailors seeking sailing adventures.
- Crewed charter - a professional skipper and crew are hired to handle everything from maneuvering the boat to providing meals, drinks, and comfort. Each charter type has its own advantages and disadvantages based on your crew's preferences and capabilities.
Bareboat Chartering: An Overview
A bareboat charter is a boat rental that doesn't include a skipper, crew, or provisions. These boats come with all the necessary equipment for sailing in your chosen location, and you can rent additional items like safety nets, gennakers, stand-up paddles, and heaters for an extra fee. The primary feature of a bareboat charter is that the boat is provided as-is, with a member of your group acting as the skipper, assuming extra responsibilities. This can mean more work, burden, and potentially additional insurance.
Pros of a Bareboat Charter: Having a captain from your group offers benefits like friendship and privacy. This option is cheaper than others, unless the skipper requests payment or a discount on the rental price. Acting as captain is an excellent opportunity to improve your sailing and leadership skills.
Cons of a Bareboat Charter: The skipper has many responsibilities, making it challenging to relax fully. The captain is responsible for planning the route, analyzing weather forecasts, making decisions, and managing the crew. Familiarity among the group is a clear advantage, as there are no strangers on board. Bareboat Charter: Important Information Various skipper licenses and country-specific restrictions apply to bareboat charters, such as distance from the coast, boat length, and passenger limits. Examine your skipper's license and the rules at your sailing destination carefully.
Plan Wisely
Consider your skipper's skills when planning a bareboat charter. Choose a destination with shorter distances between anchorages or marinas if you're a beginner. Plan your daily trips based on weather and wind, and don't rely solely on digital apps for navigation.
Skippered Charter: An Overview
A skippered charter is a boat rental that includes a professional, experienced captain. They take care of steering the boat, suggesting suitable routes, and keeping you safe. This option is ideal for those who want a hassle-free sailing holiday without ultimate responsibilities.
Pros of a Skippered Charter: A worry-free sailing trip with no need for extensive planning. Local expertise and language skills from the professional skipper. Professional skippers usually have year-round insurance, reducing crew expenses.
Cons of a Skippered Charter: Having a "stranger" on board might affect crew behavior. Hiring a professional skipper increases the overall charter cost.
Crewed Charter: An Overview
Crewed charters are less common and typically involve luxury superyachts with professional crews. These charters offer maximum comfort and relaxation, with services provided by at least three crew members: a captain, hostess, and chef. As a result, crewed charters tend to be more expensive.
Pros of a Crewed Charter: Optimal comfort and relaxation, with a full crew taking care of all your needs. Exclusive services provided by experienced professionals. A luxurious and tailored experience based on your preferences.
Cons of a Crewed Charter: Crewed charters are more costly than other options. Some may find the increased level of formality less appealing than a casual sailing trip with friends
Crewed Charter: Important Information Before embarking on a crewed charter, ensure you understand what's included in the package and any additional costs or tipping expectations. This type of charter is best suited for those seeking a high level of service and luxury during their sailing vacation..
Final Thoughts on Charter Selection
Your ideal charter will depend on your crew's preferences, abilities, and budget. Consider the destination, sailing experience, and desired comfort level when making your decision. No matter the choice, a sailing vacation promises to be a memorable experience for everyone involved. Evaluate your options carefully, and embark on your dream sailing getaway. Once everything is set, switch on your out-of-office automatic reply and embrace the sailing adventure ahead. Sailing DNA wishes you fair winds and following seas.
